For decades Dr Masego Ezekiel “Easy” Matjila’s voice has carried the baton of the Setswana language in the hope of handing it over to the younger generation. This message came across loud and clear at a recent event at the North-West University (NWU).
On 13 March 2025, he shared his journey in Setswana broadcasting at the annual public lecture hosted by the Indigenous Language Media in Africa (ILMA) research entity at the NWU’s Mahikeng Campus.
Dr Matjila’s career in radio began in September 1982 at the national broadcaster. “I started as an on-air radio personality for Radio Setswana, which later became Motsweding FM after merging with Radio Mmabatho,” he said.
Over the years, his role expanded. He became a prime-time Setswana news presenter and later acted as bulletin editor for Setswana, Sesotho and Sepedi until his retirement in 2021.
His efforts earned him wide recognition, including Best News Writer at the SABC in 2008, the honour of commentating during the 1996 African Cup of Nations with the Durban Topsport Team and recognition for his contributions to indigenous language preservation from the Pan South African Language Board.
Pure Setswana and no compromises
His commitment to linguistic integrity shaped his work. “I ensured my bulletins were in purely standardised Setswana, avoiding dialects, to serve the Batswana nation as a whole,” Dr Matjila said. He credited language boards and conferences for refining terminology and sustaining linguistic heritage. “Thanks to the mabutswapele (elders) who paved the way, we held on to what was agreed upon after years of deliberation.”
“Throughout my career, both on radio and television, I made it my mandate to deliver any presentation in the pure and living Setswana language. It is my wish that our upcoming generation should embrace our language and remember that it is passed down from generation to generation.”
Beyond broadcasting, Dr Matjila saw indigenous language media as essential for democracy and development. “Indigenous languages remain a potent vehicle for mobilising people for positive goals,” he said. Yet, he noted a decline in their use, particularly among young people, and a diminishing presence in mainstream media.
How to stem the decline
Dr Matjila appealed for stronger advocacy. “One of the most effective ways to preserve indigenous languages is through awareness campaigns,” he said, commending the SABC for its 11-language radio stations.
He also called for government intervention. “Laws should protect linguistic rights, mobilise funding and integrate indigenous languages into education.”
The message was clear: media must continue to be a platform for indigenous languages, ensuring that voices like Dr Matjila’s do not fade into silence.
From left are Prof Mpho Chaka, Dr Eazy Matjila, Prof Abioudun Salawu and Prof Gilbert Motsaathebe.
